ACKNOW LEDGEM ENT
We want to acknowledge that the University of Adelaide’s On Dit is written and created upon Kaurna land. The Kaurna People are the traditional custodians of the Greater Adelaide Plains and their culture, knowledge, and spiritual connections continue to run deeply within this Country We acknowledge that the University of Adelaide is a place of learning attended by First Nations People from around the continent and, like Kaurna, their land and sovereignty was never ceded We pay our deepest respects to the Elders of the past, present, and emerging
The First of Many – Or Maybe Just Four? Welcome to Issue 92.5, where I find myself typing up my very first editorial. That’s right, folks, this is the first of what could be a string of insightful, thought-provoking, and totally-notpanicked editorials. But let's not get ahead of ourselves there are only three more to go after this, so there's still time for me to perfect the art of, well, whatever this is.
It's an absolute pleasure to be associated with On Dit, a magazine that feels like a mix of a caffeine-fueled creative explosion and an impromptu therapy session for overworked students (crying in the corner). Whether you're here for the articles, the art, or the sheer thrill of avoiding assignments by reading this, we ’ re happy to have you.
As for me? I’m thrilled, slightly terrified, but mostly excited to bring you the best of what this team can offer. So buckle up—this issue’s packed with art, culture, and maybe a few puns that shouldn’t have made the final cut (but here we are). Here’s to this edition, and to three more that will only get wittier, weirder, and hopefully, way easier to write.
XoXo Sakshi
EDITOR’S PICK
Urvi’s Pick - Michelangelo’s David
Why pick this? because why not.
Michelangelo's David is a renaissance art masterpiece. This captured the hero before his battle with Goliath and unlike the typical portrayals of victory, the 17-foot sculpture is an embodiment of tension and focus. Every detail about this masterpiece is intense, from the veins showcased in his hands to his sharp gaze which shows a myriad of emotion in the marble. This is timeless symbol of intellect and courage; this art will remain an awe-inspiring work until the end of time
Sakshi’s Pick - The blackest black
"The Blackest Black" by Anish
Kapoor
This piece utilizes Vantablack, one of the darkest substances known, which absorbs 99.965% of visible light. The result is an almost otherworldly effect, where shapes and forms disappear into an abyss of darkness. What I find fascinating about this piece is its ability to challenge our perception of space and form. By stripping away visual cues, Kapoor forces us to confront our understanding of reality and the limitations of our own sight It’s not just an artwork; it’s an invitation to reflect on the nature of existence itself "The Blackest Black" pushes boundaries, reminding us that sometimes what we cannot see can be as powerful as what is right in front of us.
Thao’s Pick - Pietà
Michelangelo’s *Pietà* is a stunning masterpiece that captures the grief and tenderness of Mary cradling the lifeless body of Christ. Carved from a single block of marble, the sculpture’s intricate details — from the flowing drapery to the soft contours of Christ’s body showcase the artist’s technical brilliance.
Created when Michelangelo was only 24, it’s both a display of artistic skill and an emotional portrayal of love and loss The serene yet sorrowful expression on Mary’s face invites viewers to reflect on the delicate balance between suffering and compassion, making the Pietà a timeless piece of art.
Louisa’s Pick - Luncheon of the Boating Party
Since I was little , I've been drawn to the vibrant colours and joyful atmosphere of Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party. It reminds me of happy family gatherings at my Nonna's house, which is where I first came across the painting. I’m always fascinated by how each part of the painting captures a moment in time; a girl plays with her dog, a lady sips on her wine, a man is mid-speech – his thought hanging in the air.
Only recently did I notice the goings-on in the top right corner, a lady has her hands over her ears, signalling to the two men that they are imposing on her with their flirtatious gestures. Her eyes are also shut, as if to say, “I’m not listening!” Overwhelmingly, the scene is happy – even restful The brightly-striped boat canopy makes each face look rosy, and the dappled light through the trees – a dreamy mood.
REPORT YOUXPRESIDENT’S
Hey friends long time no see!
I am pretty sure you had a fantastic mid break!
As your YouX President I have been tirelessly working for all students to improve our service delivery and student experience at UoA. Let’s check out some of the exciting stuff below!
2025 The YouX Board has recently approved the 2025 YouX Budget and this budget has a strong focus on service delivery.
1. We have secured a multi-lingual full time Education and Welfare Officer for Student Care to better support international students who have language barriers.
2. We have allocated additional funding for the SRC Food Pantry to take real actions to address the current cost of living crisis for the students of financial difficulties.
3. We have put funds for the new initiative of Waite Breakfast Club and we have been closing working with Waite Peer Mentor Program to make this a reality in 2025!
4 We have also put additional funds for YouX Student Employment to provide more subsidies for students who are taking short courses from YouX.
5. More funding for On Dit and SRC Counter Guide to improve the quality of student publications for the last year of the University of Adelaide.
6. And more… With this budget I am confident that there will be a significant improvement in the quality of YouX services for all UoA students.
That’s it for me! If you have any questions or feedback please don’t hesitate to contact me at youxpresident@adelaide.edu.au.
T HRIFTTHRIVE
Created in 2019, Adelaide Fashion Collective has been the student body representing those who are in love with fashion.
Since our inception, we have been connecting students with those in the fashion industry through our business panel events, have hosted fundraisers where we sell $5 clothes, and orrganised various fashion Balls and Festivals
In 2020, our event, SustainaBall, co-hosted with the Adelaide Sustainability Association was recognised by YouX as the best event of the year.
This year, we are returning by hosting our biggest event ever: our Fashion Festival. This day will be a celebration of different cultures, showcasing different cultural clothing from our very own cultural Clubs, have different DIY stations to personalise your pieces and accessories, a Henna artist and Calamity Tash and her Glitter Angels, and at the end of the evening, we will host a Trivia Night to test your knowledge about fashion!
The best part of our Festival? It's free! Thanks to YouX, we can access the Boost Grant Fund to bring this event to Campus.
VOX?POP!
QUESTIONS
1.Whatisyourfavouritecultclassic?
2.Alotmoreyoungpeoplearethriftingtosavemoney.Whatdoyouhavetosayaboutthis? Doyouthrift?Ifso,whereisyourfavouriteopshop?
3.Ifyoucouldbringapieceofarttolifeorafashiontrendbackinstyle,whatwoulditbe?
EST
1. Pride and Prejudice (2005)
2 Thrifting is so much more affordable and it’s like giving the unique pieces a new life
Favourite op shop has got to be French laundry!! The pieces there all carefully selected and always so unique!! I almost never walk out of there empty handed
3 Starry night �� would love to see that irl and fashion trend would be the BALL GOWNS AND HANFU like the crazy gorgeous ones from like a LONG LONG TIME AGO (why can’t we wear that without getting funny looks!)
Bachelor of Media and Arts 4th year
Hanfu is a traditional Chinese dress with loose, flowing robes, wide sleeves, and a focus on natural fabrics, such as linen or silk
JESSE
1. Harry Potter
2 I say I sometimes thrift, but not regularly enough to say I have a favourite place, I think that it’s a good option to go thrifting if you ’ re in an area with many op shops, I think there’s less opportunities here to thrift in comparison to other places like London or Sydney.
“VOX POPULI” MEANS “VOICE OF THE PEOPLE” IN LATIN Bachelor of Languages 3rd year
3 A fashion trend I’d like to bring back is the Canadian tux so I don’t feel left out when wearing double denim.
ARIEL
1 Phantom of the Opera
2 I think thrifting is a really nice way to save money and also help the environment by not producing so many clothes, especially in the long term. I haven’t explored thrifting shops in Adelaide but I would love to have some recommendations on that ;>
3 Quality leather jackets!!
Bachelor of Pysiotherapy 1st Year
1. Andaz Apna Apna. It’s the ultimate comedy classic back in India It’s chaotic, it’s nonsensical, and it’s ridiculously funny a movie that never gets old no matter how many times you watch it.
2 With the cost of living crisis, it's no surprise that thrifting is becoming increasingly popular among young people. Unfortunately, I don't thrift myself, but I've heard that places like Savers or local op shops can be treasure troves for those in the know!
3. Bringing to life “The Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci would be incredible Imagine the stories unfolding around that table as everyone shares their thoughts an interactive glimpse into a historic moment! Masters of Business Administration (International)
It all began with a little note, " Hello " taped to the bottom of my classroom chair.
"It's probably a prank," I thought. I disregarded the paper and tossed it into the can as the school ended.
A few days later, a bouquet of crimson roses arrived at my doorstep. There's no card along with those fragrant blooms Enraptured by its innate beauty, I set it in a ceramic vase in my bedroom. The vibrant touch lightened up the atmosphere instantly. I woke up to the therapeutic aroma for the next few mornings. It was a halcyon time.
Not long after that, a box wrapped with a flamboyant yellow bow was left at my usual sitting table in the cafeteria. With the familiar handwriting, "Enjoy <3" was written in cursive, tantalizing me to open the gift as quickly as possible.
18
Sighing in defeat, I gave in to my overwhelming curiosity with sheer tingles of exhilaration. With a small tug, the ribbon gracefully glided down like silk. A whiff of chocolate entered my nostrils My favourite eclair sat elegantly in the roomy box, glistening with melted caramel on top.
Ever since that day, I was presented with gifts almost every week. Surprises that keep me hooked for the subsequent one. Things that tugged my rose lips into a cheerful smile. Moments that kept me sleep earlier because of the desire for the next surprise. It was like a paradise for someone like me, who never had gifts before until the other shoe dropped out of nowhere.
One day, the anonymous person finally sent me a letter It fluttered my heart with his candour confession. He mentioned that he was my classmate's brother At the end, he questioned "Do you like my gift?" and then signed it off with his name and his digits.
With an euphoric smile, I texted back without a second thought, 'Yes, thank you :)'. We chatted throughout the weekend.
One day, we talked about games when he asked, 'Do you want to join me at the arcade this Saturday afternoon?' I agreed happily and told him I'd bring my bestie, Jessie. I couldn't wait to meet the guy who clicked with me so much
I dressed myself in the chic jumpsuit that Jessie chose and tamed my hazelnut hair into wavy curls. My stomach was filled with butterflies as we walked to the destination.
A young tall guy with wavy ash-grey stood at the entrance, his emerald eyes searching through the busy crowd before he met mine
His defined jaw and sharp nose amplified his masculinity He smiled in delight as he waited with a bouquet of flowers similar to the ones I first received.
'You looked amazing,' he whispered into my ear as he handed me the beautiful bouquet gentlemanly. Rose-pink shades slowly crept my cheeks in response. He gave a soft laugh.
We ended up spending the whole noon, competing with each other in a spectrum of arcade games. Resplendent pictures illuminated from the screen, bathing the centre with colourful glows. The atmosphere was lively with laughter and shrieks of joy. Halfway through the hangout, Jessie left because her family decided to eat out that night
I decided to head home when the night fell. My eyes were heavy-lidded, exhausted from the fun and eventful day. Feeling extremely drowsy, I yawned as my sight turned blurry. I was just a few more steps from the junction of my house. With every strength I had, I tried to stride faster but my knees gave out all of a sudden. Someone lifted me seconds before I met the verdant side path.
I was going to mumble out my gratitude when I was welcomed with the sight of someone who made my distant memory clear. Under the streetlights, the shadow on his face was just like the guy on the news half a year ago.
My blood ran cold at the realisation. I struggled to get out of his clutches but to no avail. My limbs were too weak. A lone tear rolled down my cheek as I realised...
He was the stalker, who drugged a celebrity with a vase of scarlet roses but won in the court with a famous lawyer He was the 'Red Devil'
Flashbacks of my early naps rushed through my mind. Red flags I should have known… With that thought in mind, his sinister grin accompanied me as the darkness swallowed me whole.
LRC
LABOR CLUB
The recent Review commissioned by the Premier was implemented following concerns about the potential loss of jobs and about the long-term viability of a complete restructuring of services and research. Upon its completion, the Government announced it would accept all six of the recommendations - such as directly injecting $4 1 million into the museum and appointing a new board chair It is estimated that the current space available for public galleries and exhibits is only at a third of what is needed, with the review recommending a study into asset management and infrastructure in order to enhance the amount of space on offer A key problem that the museum has faced recently is a lack of funding due to decreased visitors and donors, with the review recommending that new opportunities be sought Regardless, it remains clear that the most reliable long-term method of funding our museums is to encourage more people to visit with their friends and familyhence the emphasis on marketing within the review We firmly believe that the museum is an important cultural and historical institution that should be protected; and oppose any outrageous attempts at repeating the infamous Liberal cuts to the arts sector.
Ellie Venning (Labor Club President) & April Glynn-roe
What do you make of the Premier’s decision to axe the restructure of SA Museum and instead contribute an extra $4.1 million to develop a new strategy for marketing, promotion of exhibitions and museum operations? Are you confident that the Premier’s new Strategic Plan will ensure the Museum remains “cherished by the South Australian public?"
The Greens Club welcome the Premier’s decision to axe the restructure of SA Museum and provide funding for a new strategy. Earlier this year, a Greens motion initiated the State Parliament's Statutory Authorities Review Standing Committee (SARC) inquiry into the South Australian Museum The multi-partisan SARC inquiry has heard shocking evidence about the current Museum’s governance and funding issues The Greens want the Government to prioritise our cultural institutions This isn’t just about the museum; it is about safeguarding access to vital cultural and scientific resources for generations to come While we await the recommendations and report from the SARC Inquiry, the Premier’s new Strategic Plan signals a move in the right direction to protecting the Museum, but acceptance and implementation on the recommendations from the SARC Inquiry will signal true commitment
PROGRESS
Response not received
Valeria Caceres Galvez (Greens Club President)
GREENS CLUB
TRANSPARENCY
The axing of the Museum's restructure is a win for the state of South Australia There aren't many issues which can unite the political spectrum, but this was one, with both the Greens and Liberal coming out against the proposal to restructure the museum, despite the latter's budget cuts while in office having put the museum in a position where job losses were a necessity We know that institutions like our museum need more funding, and the additional $4.1 million dollars will ensure that the museum can appeal to more people across our state Labor never should have accepted that elimination of the museum's researchers would be acceptable, but any time where the Premier decides policies based on public benefit is a very welcome change, and we are cautiously optimistic about the future for the museum
Cyrus Kelly
LIBERAL CLUB
The Liberal Club has, since day one, alongside our parliamentary team, called to save the museum and thus support the Premier’s much-delayed decision to axe the restructure of the SA Museum The SA Museum is a beloved icon of our city and our state, and the researchers and academics employed there are worldclass Therefore, it was utterly unacceptable that this government felt so brazen as to be willing to permit the abolishment of 27 scientific researchers’ jobs and remove some of our favourite galleries Similarly, we are pleased that an additional $4.1 million will be allocated to the museum However, we find it disgraceful that this government were more than happy to allocate over $10 3 million for a state voice to parliament, which South Australians resolutely rejected, while simultaneously refusing to provide the full $10 million academics and the public called for; only agreeing to provide less than half of that after over 10,000 signatures and months of public protests and outrage. The AULC firmly believes that the preservation and study of our history, both its triumphs and its challenges, are equally vital in shaping our national identity and ensuring a harmonious and united Australia in the years to come
Adrian
SOCIALIST ALTERNATIVE
We welcome the decision not to cut the jobs of museum staff, which came after months of protests, petitions, and community pressure But many of the problems with the previous proposal for the museum are present to an even larger extent in the university merger which the Premier is pushing ahead with Job cuts, existing staff having to reapply for new positions, the savaging of the library and a callous disregard for cultural institutions in the name of profits, not to mention trimesters and cuts to face-to-face learning What the campaign to save the museum shows is that when we fight it is possible to reverse cuts A much larger campaign will be needed to stop cuts happening in the merger process, which is why it’s important to get organising now. We’ve launched the Student Fightback campaign as a way to do this, and would urge anyone who cares about saving our university to get involved As for confidence in the Premier’s new plan for the museum, time will tell, but considering it only came about after a campaign it’s likely this is not the last time there will need to be a fight to stop cuts there either
Alex Bastiras
As part of our commitment to fostering an inclusive and informed campus community, we invited political groups to share their political inclinations in terms of "Economic Inclination" and "Social Inclination"
LABOR CLUB:
Economic Inclination: Centre-Left
Social Inclination: Centre-Left
PROGRESS:
Economic Inclination: Centre-right (Social democratic)
We believe in fair distribution of resources, with a pragmatic approach anchored in effective economic management, focusing on efficiency and value for money Our policies have some level of market orientation, motivated by a willingness to invest in student services
Social Inclination: Central-left (Progressive)
We are committed to protecting students from adverse social and political influences, with a prime focus on inclusivity, welfare, and campus unity Our stance is progressive on social issues, and we take a proactive stance on social reforms and welfare policies to better cater to student issues
TRANSPARENCY:
Economic Inclination: "WHATEVER EUROPE IS DOING"
Social Inclination: "THE EXACT OPPOSITE OF THE US"
GREENS CLUB:
We believe in economic and social policies based on the pillars of the SA Greens: ecological sustainability, grassroots democracy, social justice, and peace and nonviolence
Economic Inclination: Left-wing
Social Inclination: Left-wing
SOCIALIST ALTERNATIVE:
Economic Inclination: Socialist
Social Inclination: Socialist
DISABILITY- DIT
"
D y s l e x i c ’ s
G E T L O S T ! "
Part I
Some dyslexics like me can get lost easily, even if we hear or see street directions. Largely because of our challenges in reading, interpreting, and remembering words. Even when words are on street signs
Giving street directions seems a compulsive activity for some, they simply must tell you I can’t tell you how many times I’ve attentively sat there through the futile torture of having someone tell me the street-by-street directions…
A person helping enthusiastically starts their monologue with a rhetorical question, “You know the suburb, Sheidow Park? Well, if you turn right off King William Street into… (you’re losing me) then turn left from Gouger into (and I’m lost) ” It is about here when the tinnitus-like dial tone plays in my head. Sometimes it’s more like elevator music. Maintaining eye contact is difficult during someone ’ s monologue I begin noticing details like pimples, moles, and other unique features on their face as I drift into distraction.
They stop talking and I’m back! But I have no idea what they said. Not because I’m lazy at listening, but because I don’t remember directions like that This is just part of my hidden genetic neurodivergence.
It’s far worse with my family They know I don’t remember this stuff Yet, it it still frustrates my mum to no end, and she simply must tell me the street directions anyway. If I protest, she will give me the silent treatment Lucky many dyslexics are very patient and empathetic people. Plus, pushing your dad or mum out the car door while moving is likely illegal.
Dyslexic Olympics
For some dyslexics, getting lost is an Olympic sport. Adding to the above challenges, there’s a common condition in people, including those with dyslexia, called ‘left-right confusion’ (van der Ham et al. 2021).
It’s not a type of dyslexia, just a potential co-occurring condition. Telling someone to go left or right may not be as simple for them as they mix these up And, this is just one of the additional dyslexic co-occurring conditions that can impact going from location A to B.
Combining all the above and throwing in one or two more interesting novelties, driving becomes a magical mystery tour for some. Every, single, trip. However, I’m a lucky one here, as I’m one of the dyslexics who has exceptional visual-spatial abilities Dyslexia can also be commonly associated with various strengths. With this strength, among other things, I can easily visualise and memorise landscapes and landmarks along the way, visually mapping my travels.
Who Needs Names? Just Visualise It!
One hack I learned was to review Google Street View images on Google Maps before a drive. The creation of Street View was a game-changer for me. Now I can plan a trip by seeing where I’m going Once I visualise how to get somewhere then the problem is solved No getting lost. Accept, I may never learn the street and suburb names I regularly drive through ever Honestly, I can’t tell you most of the street names I regularly drive on to this very day.
Nevertheless, one piece of tech I live by when driving is my GPS. The GPS lets me switch off and blindly follow the robotic voice, with little preparation and brain energy needed once I pop in the destination. Now, in the front car seats, the only person I argue with is the GPS
Just one little problem, my GPS doesn’t have spellcheck How do you spell Shidoe Park, Sheadoe Park, Shidow Park ? Oh bugger!
Me: I grab my phone and ask, “Hello Siri, how do you spell Sheidow Park?”
Siri: In a snobby robotic voice, “S h a d o w P a r k.”
Me: “No Siri, how do you ”
The passenger interrupts and offering no eye contact says, “It’s S-H-E-I-D-O-W.” Silence envelops the car while I tap away at the GPS, and drive on Me: “Thanks Mum! I love you. ” I casually glance over at her car door “Have you got your seat belt on?”
Disclaimer: No mums were hurt during the research of this opinion piece, and I don’t condone pushing one out of a moving car Be good to your mothers! ��
DYSLEXIC DIARIES
Arefreshingbookreview
BY LOUISA TEDESCO
unusual narrative
A gritty and raw adaptation of Dickens’ David Copperfield, Demon Copperhead provides an unsanitised and heart-wrenching retelling of the orphan narrative.
Set in the mountains of southern Appalachia, we meet the narrator and protagonist: Demon, born to a single mother struggling with substance abuse The story follows the copper-haired and feisty ten-year-old as he is bounced around from home to home, navigating adolescence whilst experiencing the isolation of never truly belonging.
Using a combination of witty self-deprecating humour and vivid imagery, Barbara Kingsolver provides a scathing critique of the socioeconomic disadvantage in the Appalachian region. Embarking on Demon’s coming-of-age journey, the reader wrestles with the flaws in the foster care system, the poor quality of education, as well as the medical malfeasance perpetrated by Big Pharma.
Demon’s narration is seriously depressing, yet incredibly riveting I appreciated the amount of introspection throughout. While David Copperfield’s protagonist recalls his hardship with rose-tinted glasses, Demon is brutally honest, and lays bare the pain of how much his life truly sucks. It’s because of Kingsolver working this magic that I could truly get inside Demon’s head and didn’t want to put the book down
Trigger warnings: this book contains sexually explicit content, as well as a heavy use of profanity. Sensitive themes include suicidal ideation, domestic violence, and substance abuse (which, in some cases, lead to death)
I’m glad that Demon Copperhead was one of my course readings, otherwise I don’t think I would have ever picked it up! Definitely one of the most enjoyable, yet ethically challenging and mentally exhausting books I have ever read
Are you a book nerd or a film buff?
Submit your reviews to onditmag@gmail.com and you could feature in our next edition!
Urvi: Let's start with introductions. What are your names, and can you tell us a bit more about the festival?
Katie: Yeah, so I'm Kaitlyn, but you can call me Katie. I’m the Head of Production for this festival What’s really special about Art of The Possible is that it’s a student-led event Everyone involved in this class is passionate about creativity and the arts, and we ’ ve all come together for this project. What’s great is that when people hear “art,” they often think of music, dance, drawing, or photography But Art of the Possible is about showcasing a much broader spectrum of creativity We have surround sound, VR experiences, and a focus on how creativity develops not just the final product, but the whole process We’re highlighting how diverse art forms are, with events like comedy, film screenings, and other mediums all coming together in one festival
Rather than being a niche music or dance event, it’s a platform for everyone to share their unique skills and passions.
Kathers: Hi, I’m Kathers, the Head of Marketing for the festival. Katie touched on this a little, but the theme for this year ’ s festival is “Creativity in Bloom”. The idea is loosely tied to the fact that spring starts in October here, but it mainly reflects how students are at a budding point in their lives. This festival allows them to showcase what they can become and what they want to achieve after university, whether it’s presenting their work to fellow students or potential future employers.
Urvi: That sounds amazing! Your website mentions various events, performances, and exhibitions. Was there a specific inspiration behind the theme “Creativity in Bloom”?
Katie: We brainstormed for a while to find a theme that resonated Each of us contributed ideas on what Art of The Possible meant to us Last year, the festival
had a “Creative Stage” theme, but we wanted something that reflected both the growth and the creative journey. “Creativity in Bloom” felt fitting, especially since the festival is held in spring, symbolising new beginnings. But we didn’t want it to be limited to just a seasonal reference The theme is a play on words, symbolising the entire creative process from the initial seed of an idea, through its ups and downs, to the final product We wanted to showcase not just the end results, but the conversations and journeys that led to them Our social media team has been documenting the whole process, so you can see how our own ideas have bloomed into a full-fledged festival
Urvi: Here's a more philosophical question— since this festival revolves around art, what does art mean to you? Has your perspective evolved through creating this festival?
Kathers: Personally, I feel this festival is more about creativity than art itself. For me, art is a form of expression, where Creativity is about using different mediums around us to convey those emotions, opinions, or ideas. It doesn’t have to be fancy or visually stunning it’s whatever communicates what we ’ re trying to express
Katie: For me, art is more than expression. I’m a songwriter, and before I started writing, I wanted to be an author I knew I wanted to work in a creative field, but didn’t have a specific path in mind Over time, art became a way for me to make sense of my thoughts and the world around me Whether through music, drawing, or photography, creating something helped me understand emotions or situations I couldn’t put into words It’s about understanding myself and the world through creative means Each person ’ s definition of art will vary depending on their personality, life
experiences, and how they process things This festival, for me, reflects that personal journey and growth.
Urvi: How can someone get involved in the festival? What’s the process?
Katie: Unfortunately the submissions are closed for the year, but we had submission forms and a link for people to explore the various categories they can participate in We really want everyone to have a chance to showcase their work. Sometimes certain art forms don’t have a platform, and it’s important for people to have the opportunity to share their art, whether it’s film, photography, physical art, music, architecture, or VR games. This festival aims to be that platform, so keep hold of the work you ’ re proud of from this year and prepare it to submit for next year ’ s festival!
Kathers: Even though our submissions are now closed, we are looking for volunteers to help us with running the festival. We have a QR code you can follow if you ’ re interested - it’ll be a great experience of what goes behind the scenes at a festival!
Urvi: What do you hope people take away from your festival?
Katie: I really hope people walk away feeling inspired. I want them to see that there is a space for art and creativity, and it’s okay to dive into that. Creative fields can be challenging and competitive, and not everyone has support This festival is a celebration of creativity, showing that there’s a place for everyone ’ s work and passion.
ARTOFTHE POSSIBLE
SCAN THE CODE TO BE A PART OF THE FESTIVAL!
Kathers: I want people to recognize that creativity can be found in every field It’s not limited to traditional art forms. For example, a mathematician can approach their work creatively, create beautiful works of art through numbers and patterns. The idea is to show that creativity is not just for those who sing well or draw beautifully it’s something everyone has There are so many ways to be creative, and even more ways yet to be discovered.
Katie: That’s one of the best aspects of Art of the Possible. It’s about showing that creativity can take different forms, and I hope this festival becomes a space where people want to come back year after year Maybe someone will visit this year and think, “I want to be a part of this next time ” Whether it’s contributing to VR games, film, or other mediums, I’d love for the festival to become a well-known platform for showcasing and nurturing creativity.
Kathers: And students can even be a part of organising it! There are elective courses linked to this project, so if someone wants to get involved on the organisational side, they can take it as part of their studies next year
Urvi: That’s amazing! From my perspective, I’m someone who, even if held at gunpoint, couldn’t draw a stick figure. I don’t consider myself creative in that way, but if I walked into this festival and seeing all this art, I might get inspired to try something next year.
Kathers: That’s exactly the impression we want to leave! We also have spoken word events and comedians, so there’s something for everyone.
Katie: It’s all about creating opportunities For example, with spoken word, artists get a chance to see their work in a new light and share it in a different format This festival provides a platform to present work that might otherwise only be seen by lecturers.
Kathers: Exactly Many amazing pieces of student art and creativity would go unnoticed if not for events like this We want to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Katie: For instance, we have a “Soundscape Room” where Sonic Arts students create an immersive environment with sounds like footsteps, breathing, or leaves crunching Usually, only lecturers hear about these projects, but now we can share them with a broader audience. It’s about showing that there’s more to music and sound than just melodies. You can create entire worlds with sound, and that’s what we want to highlight
We also have food trucks from WedThurs from 11am-3pm which gives 500 free serves, after which students have to pay This can be found in the Bar Smith Lawns There are workshops which you can attend as well – you can find the details on our Instagram We have also partnered with Student engagement and would like to thank our sponsors: Sia Institute, Fox Creek wines, Officeworks, Red Bull, Konica Minolta, Arnott’s
Bodies
By Imogen Grbin
The cool sensation of water pooling around my ankles takes an edge off the heat. Carefully perched on the edge, I dip my feet in first. Luce is beside me, all sunburnt cheeks and short brown hair, grinning
It was Luce’s idea Climbing up to the water tank out of town It’ll be fun! C’mon, how many people can say they’ve actually climbed up there and swam in the tank? She drove us out here, windows down, our legs burning on the leather seats of her Mum’s silver Mercedes, hot air blowing onto sticky cheeks.
Girl with pearl necklaces
ByAnikaParenta
Every little girl is born with a pearl necklace It sits delicately on our collarbones where people’s eyes linger hungrily. We wear sweaters that droop off our shoulders to display the milky beads or tops that hug us so tightly the ridges of the pearls strain through the fabric.
Boys grow hot with lust at the sight Men thirst for the smooth white orbs in their fingers but once our pearls are touched; the dirt under their nails, oils on their sandpaper skin and violence leaking from their palms make the pearls dirty. The chain holding them around our pretty necks snap and the pearls go tumbling down to the ground.
From the team of Art of the Possible Shortstories
Intuition Architecture
By Greig Thomson
It’s a digital display, an image of a brain floating in a vat. Up and down, it hypnotically bobs in a mysterious liquid, digital bubbles rising to the top, the eerie essence of a living organism. But it’s predominantly a computer, a highly tuned number cruncher, nothing more Dr Roarke is responsible for overseeing the project, organising the teams of programmers and scientists. His goal is to build a machine capable of the uniquely human quality of intuition. A machine that can sense something coming. Three beeps and it would have the answer to the biggest question: the fate of the human race.
Black fingernails
By Chantell Saunders
They don’t put up missing posters for girls anymore. In the beginning they combed through forests, the police a shaft and teeth of torches, picking out snags of summer dresses like lice in dark hair We prayed for them in Christian living, a wreath of joint hands and bowed heads, a collective whisper, a plea.
I remember the first, corkscrew curls projected on white canvas, twenty-four sets of eyes dissecting the painted smile, the creased blue uniform. What happened to her?
Shortstories
If you would like to continue reading these tales, please join us for our Storytelling Night, Tuesday 22 October. This night promises a double feature of literary and cinematic delights, highlighting the diverse talents within our community We look forward to sharing these creative works with you, as we come together to honour the timeless art of storytelling in its many forms Tickets can be found here: https://linktr.ee/aotp2024
TheCanadianElection, ayear(?)out
WITH SEBASTIAN ANDREW
Regardless of how the US elections go later this year, at least one ‘blue wave ’ is destined for North America Canadians will be heading to the polls at some point on or before October 20, 2025. Whenever the election, the Conservative Party of Canada is near guaranteed victory. If current polls are repeated at an election, the Conservatives would win a parliamentary supermajority.
The current breakdown of Canada’s House of Commons is: Liberal Party (153 seats), Conservative Party (119), Bloc Québécois (33), New Democratic Party (25), Independent (4), Green Party (2) and vacant (2). The Liberal Party, led by Justin Trudeau, are governing in the minority, after the New Democrats recently scrapped the confidence and supply agreement that had been in place since 2022.
If you ’ re not deeply familiar with Canadian politics, you’ll likely at least know who Justin Trudeau is. Politically, he’s a dead man walking. His party has collapsed in the polls, now hovering around 20% of the vote, and trailing the Conservatives by double digits. This year he’s lost two formerly safe seats in by-elections. Only a third of the country approves of his government, and he’s very close to dropping to third in preferred leader polls. Things have changed drastically from when Trudeau, a young and popular challenger, propelled the Liberal Party from electoral irrelevance and into a majority government at the 2015 election.
This time, they’re projected to win less than 100 seats, and risk slipping into third place (or god forbid, fourth place!). Some
projections even have Trudeau losing his own seat to the New Democrats. Meanwhile, the Conservatives, led by a scrappy right-wing populist named Pierre Poilievre, are expected to win around 220 to 230 seats out of a possible 343. This would be the party’s highest ever seat count in its current iteration (the Conservative Party of today has only existed since 2003, when Canada’s two conservative parties merged into one), and the highest for a conservative party since the Progressive Conservative landslide in 1984
The ‘why’ is nothing unexpected Cost-ofliving crises are hammering incumbent governments and rewarding populist challengers. Canada is no different. Inflation has started to tick down, but that’s after years of stubborn highs, including a peak of 8% (Canada’s highest since the early 1980s recession).
Increased costs to food and energy are where Canadians are feeling most of the pain. On these two issues, Poilievre has successfully rallied the Canadian public against one policy in particular –Canada’s carbon pricing scheme. This scheme, he’s argued, has increased food costs through restrictions on farming equipment and hindrances to production, and energy costs by increasing the costs of production for energy sources that the majority of Canadians (and especially those on lower incomes) rely on
Over the last few years, Poilievre has relentlessly criss-crossed the country, drawing large crowds to ‘ axe the tax’ rallies. So effective these attacks have been
hat the New Democrats (who have traditionally pushed for the Liberals to take stronger actions to combat climate change) have reversed their support for the carbon pricing scheme, and all provincial governments have come out in opposition to the policy. Of course, it is far more complex in reality; food inflation is largely driven by supply chain issues and price gouging by supermarkets, and energy costs are driven by reliance on fossil fuels, an energy source highly vulnerable to supply shocks, as well as price gouging. The carbon pricing policy even sends tax revenue back to the provinces, or directly to taxpayers – an aspect that Trudeau’s government has been too slow and ineffective in communicating All the while, Poilievre has successfully convinced enough Canadians that ‘axing the tax’ will bring down the cost of food and energy, and make everyone ’ s lives better.
Another pressing issue for Canadians is that of housing unaffordability, due to an overwhelming mismatch between demand and supply. Housing affordability is so bad that around 28% of Canadians (and 42% of Canadians aged 18 to 24) have ‘seriously considered’ leaving their province due to costs. Of this 28%, less than half would move elsewhere in Canada, with the rest opting for abroad, or unsure. Poilievre has successfully placed the blame on recent jumps in migration, blaming migrant increases eating up Canada’s housing supply, and has promised to cap population growth in line with housing supply In reality, the blame for housing unaffordability primarily lies with provincial governments and their aversion towards constructing new
swellings. But immigration makes for an easier and more effective scapegoat…
As for the other parties, the election is a mixed picture. Attacking Trudeau from the left, the New Democrats are poised to steal some seats from the Liberals in urban Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal However, their indecisiveness regarding carbon pricing and their previous support for Trudeau’s government has left their seats in the West vulnerable to the Conservatives The Bloc Quebecois are expected to win some rural seats off the Liberals and could compete in historically-Liberal Montreal. However, as they only run in Quebec electorates, they can only grow so far. With the Liberal vote in freefall, any three of these parties could realistically end up forming Canada’s official opposition.
Once the Liberal Party’s saviour, a new and optimistic face in Canadian politics, Trudeau and his government are nothing but hopelessly doomed to be washed away by a desperate and vengeful electorate. Polls show that over two-thirds of Canadians feel as if the country is ‘broken’, and that younger generations are overwhelmingly pessimistic about the future. Sentiments like that are hard to fix with new policy proposals, and are likely to be dismissed by the electorate as too little, too late For Trudeau, there is no future. For the Liberal Party, there is only the hope that they aren’t washed away for good.
VAN GOGH, YOUR WAY
thehomecity
You grow up in a city, With four walls for a home, Street vendors as neighbours, And struggle as your culture.
Thousands dream to come, And I dreamt to leave.
And a day came, Some days ago, I left.
Never say never they say, But never feel like never no one says!
Hilltops were vacation, Now amidst home. Well, house.
All dreams came true, Independence was my new culture, And home felt on a boat. But this boat didn’t stand on the shore to admire the beauty of the river, But, this boat, rowed away. So far away Now, it seems like never.
I dreamt of leaving, Is what I said... It wasn’t though.
My city is the worst. For you and her and him, all of them. My city is polluted. For well me too. My city is home, To me of course! But to her and him and them and hers and his and, all of theirs!
I ran away chasing a dream, Seems that way at least, So I am not there anymore. …So, I am not there anymore, because I can’t be if there is no that anymore.
How confusing is my mind? Once I want to leave, And then I crave.
It is the privilege of being in the city. Alas it has all we chase – opportunities. It opens up avenues, It creates jobs, It gives new homes.
But for me, 'tis just the plain old humidity, pollution, constant hustle, And,
At the face of it - chaos - the ability to just vanish in the chaos.
Every city this boat takes me, I am going to start over. Because that is what cities are for – reinvention! And that is what I chased when I left.
It is not the city that made me. It’s me who made me!
And at the end when all I have done is row And all I have is me, I will row back. And, I will be able to row back, Because Home is not the four walls, Or the neighbours, Or the struggle.
Home is the tingle that my heart feels every time I land on the dirtiest shores, Of my city And with the warmth in the air, I step in.
OCHET TTLE
FollowtheSteps
Step 1: Create a magic circle
Step 2: Chain 2, insert 12 double crochets (DC) into the loop, secure circle using slipstitch
Step 3: Chain 2, insert DC into the each stitch, secure circle
Step 4: Chain 2, insert 2 DC into stitch, then 1 DC, repeat until end of circle secure
Step 5: Chain 2, DC into each stitch, secure, repeat for 2 rounds
Step 6: Chain 3, skip a stitch, insert DC, chain 1, skip a stitch, DC, repeat until end of round then secure
Step 7: Repeat Step 6 until desired height (tip: make it shorter than intended as the final product will stretch)
Step 8: chain 1, single crochet until end of the round, then secure, repeat for 2 rounds
Step 9: Chain length of strap
Step 10: Skip 2 stitches, Insert DC until the end of the strap
Step 11: Secure the strap to the holder using a slip stitch
Step 12: Slip stitch halfway along the circumference
Step 13: Attach free end of the strap to the holder using slip stitches, continue to slip stitch until the end of the round
Step 14: Cut the yarn and pull through the remaining loop, then hide loose ends using darning needle
D I Y C O R N E R
